M3GAN was released on digital VOD platforms in a surprise move by Universal Pictures. The Blumhouse horror film was only released in theaters roughly three weeks ago.
Blumhouse's M3GAN tells the story of a life-sized humanoid robot doll (Model 3 Generative Android) designed by roboticist Gemma (Allison Williams) to assist with caretaking duties and provide companionship to children. However, when Gemma decides to test M3GAN on her recently-orphaned niece, Cady, the robot eventually sets out on a murderous rampage, killing anyone she perceives as a threat to her relationship with Cady.
M3GAN was a box office hit when it premiered on January 6, 2023, earning a worldwide total of $124.7 million as of this writing. Now, audiences can watch M3GAN at home by buying or renting the film on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Xfinity, VUDU, and DirecTV. Horror fans can rent M3GAN for $19.99 US or purchase the film for 24.99 US. Universal has not announced a M3GAN streaming release date.
A M3GAN sequel is already in the works and scheduled for a 2025 theatrical release. Williams and Violet McGraw, who played Cady, are reprising their respective role as Gemma and Cady. A follow-up is not surprising considering the box office success. However, a digital release for M3GAN might be a shock because the film is still performing well at the box office and only debuted theatrically less than a month ago.
Perhaps Universal believes untapped moviegoers are willing to pay to watch M3GAN but hesitant to visit theaters. While Avatar: The Way of Water's $2 billion gross proves audiences are eager to watch movies in theaters, the pandemic is not over, and the winter months still see an increase in COVID-19 cases. Some people might not be willing to take the risk of seeing M3GAN in theaters.
Whatever the reason for the surprise digital release, M3GAN is considered the perfect film to start the year by many, so giving more people to opportunity to enjoy the experience should be celebrated. The killer doll's dance moves are best experienced in whatever way moviegoers feel most comfortable.
M3GAN is now playing in theaters and on digital platforms.
Source: meetM3GAN/Twitter